(a) It is the intent of the Legislature that California students with financial need be made aware of the opportunities afforded to them through the various state and federal financial aid programs, including the Cal Grant Program established pursuant to Chapter 1.7 (commencing with Section 69430).

(b) Since the creation of the Cal Grant A and Cal Grant B entitlement programs under Article 2 (commencing with Section 69434) of, and Article 3 (commencing with Section 69435) of, Chapter 1.7, efforts to provide information to students have been developed and implemented by various organizations and institutions. However, there is a need to consolidate, incorporate, expand, and improve these programs as a statewide effort in order to ensure access to workshops, information, and assistance.